Thousands from various Iranian cities took part in a protest against the clerical regime's policies at Pasargade, site of the tomb of Cyrus the Great, outside Shiraz. The gathering took place on the day that his birth in 591 BCE is celebrated, Oct. 28. Protestors described Cyrus as a foundational figure in the establishment of human rights principles. The celebration is held annually, and tolerated for its patriotic theme, but has had a growing oppositional tone. Traditional slogans include:  "Cyrus is our father and Iran is our homeland." but this year another chant was heard: "Freedom of thought impossible with the mullahs." (Media Express, NCRI, Oct. 28)

See our last posts on the civil opposition in Iran.